Fall Market Preview: Stable Prices, Growing Inventory, and a September Events Calendar Full of Possibilities

Happy Wednesday, everyone. Can you feel it? The days are getting just a little bit shorter, the sunsets are getting even more spectacular, and the energy across the Valley is shifting into that wonderful fall rhythm. I absolutely love this time of year in Arizona. The weather starts to ease up, the community calendar fills with incredible events, and the real estate market settles into a steady, healthy pace that gives buyers real opportunities. I want to be your Realtor for Life, and I want to share what I am seeing as we head into September.

Where the Market Stands as We Head Into Fall

The Arizona summer market has been one of the most balanced we have seen in years, and the trends are pointing toward a strong fall season. Here is what I am watching:

• The year-to-date median home price sits at $485,000 across metro Phoenix, up about 1 percent compared to the same period last year. That is steady, healthy growth. We are not seeing wild price swings, which is good for both buyers and sellers who want a predictable market.
• Active listings are up 27 percent year over year. That is a significant jump in inventory, and it means buyers have more choices today than they did at this time last year. More homes to tour, more neighborhoods to explore, and more time to make the right decision.
• Homes are averaging about 56 to 67 days on market depending on the area and price point. That is a comfortable pace that gives buyers the breathing room to compare options, think through their decisions, and work with their lender to get the best financing.
• About 31 percent of listings are seeing price reductions, which tells me that sellers who priced too aggressively at the start are adjusting to meet the market. For buyers, this means there are opportunities to find homes that are now priced more realistically.
• Metro Phoenix home sales are up 5.1 percent compared to last year. More people are buying and selling, and that is a sign of confidence in our market and our community.

One thing I want to mention: mortgage rates climbed to around 6.69 percent in early August, the highest level in over a year. I know that number can feel intimidating, but here is the truth. Rates change all the time, and they do not change the fact that owning a home is still one of the best long-term investments you can make. Plus, you can always refinance when rates come back down. The important thing is getting into the home you love at a price that works for you today. I can connect you with trusted lenders who will walk through every option with you.

Labor Day Weekend Events: September 4-7

Labor Day weekend is one of my favorite weekends of the year. The whole Valley comes alive with concerts, festivals, and community gatherings. Here is what I am most excited about:

Zach Bryan is playing at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Saturday, September 5. This is going to be an incredible show. State Farm Stadium is one of the premier concert venues in the country, and Zach Bryan's live performances are something special. Tickets are available through the usual outlets. I would love to hear from you if you are going.

My Chemical Romance and Jimmy Eat World are performing together at Chase Field in Phoenix on Sunday, September 6. This is a huge show for anyone who grew up on early 2000s alternative rock. Jimmy Eat World is an Arizona band, so this one is especially meaningful for our local music scene. Chase Field is a great venue for concerts, and this show is going to be an unforgettable night.

The Arizona Chile Festival returns September 4-5 in Phoenix. If you love food, you will not want to miss this one. The festival celebrates Arizona's rich chile-growing tradition with tastings, cooking demonstrations, live music, and plenty of spice. It is a wonderful way to spend a long weekend afternoon.

The Arizona Invitational Black Rodeo runs September 4-6 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. This three-day event showcases Black cowboy and cowgirl culture with rodeo competitions, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It is a powerful celebration of Western heritage and diversity.

More September Events Across the Valley

The fun does not stop after Labor Day. Here are more events I am looking forward to in September:

September 12: The Maverick Stadium Kickoff Festival Car Show is happening in Goodyear. This is a great community event for car enthusiasts and families alike. Goodyear continues to grow and develop, and events like this bring the whole community together. I will be in the West Valley that weekend, so maybe I will see you there.

September 12: Chris Tomlin in concert at the Mesa Amphitheatre. This is a beautiful outdoor venue in the East Valley, and Chris Tomlin's live shows are known for their uplifting and powerful atmosphere. A great way to spend a September evening.

September 15: Somos Peoria Kickoff Event. Peoria kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month with a community celebration that includes live music, food, and cultural activities. Peoria is one of the fastest-growing cities in the West Valley, and I love seeing the community come together for events like this.

September 18-27: Fall Arizona Restaurant Week. This is one of my favorite events of the year. Restaurants across the Valley offer special prix fixe menus, giving you a chance to explore new places and enjoy incredible food. Participating restaurants span from Scottsdale to Glendale to Chandler and everywhere in between. It is a wonderful way to support local businesses.

September 19-20 and 26-27: Queen Creek Olive Mill Garlic Fest. This is a fun family event in the East Valley featuring garlic-inspired dishes, olive oil tastings, live music, and farm activities. Queen Creek Olive Mill is a true Arizona gem, and the Garlic Fest is always a hit with locals and visitors alike.

September 20: Somos Peoria Taco Fest and Concert. Peoria continues the celebration with a taco festival and concert that brings together food vendors, live music, and community fun. If you love tacos (and who does not), this is the place to be.

September 25-27: Foodieland at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale. This food festival brings together dozens of vendors, live cooking demonstrations, and entertainment at the iconic Phoenix Raceway. It is a great weekend event for food lovers in the West Valley.

September 26: Phoenix Brewsology Beer Fest at the Arizona Science Center. Craft beer lovers, mark your calendars. This event features breweries from across the state, along with science-themed activities at the Science Center. It is a unique and fun way to spend a Saturday.

September 26: Salt River Arts Festival in Scottsdale. This free outdoor arts festival features local artists, live music, and hands-on art activities. It is a beautiful way to enjoy the first cooler weather of the season.

September 26: The Round Up in Goodyear. Goodyear hosts this community celebration with food, music, and family activities. It is a wonderful way to welcome the fall season in the West Valley.

September 26: Arizona Moon Festival in Chandler. This free family-friendly event celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival with cultural performances, lantern displays, traditional food, and children's activities. Chandler's diversity is one of the things I love about our Valley, and this festival is a beautiful example of it.

Do not forget about the Gilbert Farmers Market every Saturday in downtown Gilbert, and the Gold Palette ArtWalk every Thursday evening in Scottsdale's Arts District. These are wonderful weekly traditions that make living in the Valley so special.

Why This Fall Market Matters for You

I have been a full-time Realtor in Arizona since 2002, and I have seen this market through every season you can imagine. I have helped families buy their first home, sell the home they raised their children in, relocate from across the country, and find the perfect property for their next chapter. What I can tell you is this: the fall market is one of the best times to buy a home.

Sellers who have been on the market since summer are often more motivated to negotiate as the year winds down. Inventory is higher than it has been in years. And with rates where they are, there is less competition from other buyers. That combination creates real opportunity for anyone who is ready to make a move.

You do not need 20 percent down. You do not need a perfect credit score. There are programs available that can help you buy a home with as little as $1,500 out of pocket. Business owners can buy without filing tax returns. Buyers with lower credit scores still have options. And if you are looking at new construction, please reach out to me before you visit a builder on your own. I have resources that can help you get the best deal possible.

I am always available to answer your questions and share my knowledge with you. I want you to have a smooth process and experience from start to finish. That is what it means to be Your Realtor for Life.

Call or text me at (623) 640-8840 or reach out online. I look forward to hearing from you. Have a wonderful rest of your week, and enjoy everything the Valley has to offer this beautiful fall season, Talk to you soon!